What Does it Cost?
by Anne Watcher on Sunday February 17th, 2008 at 3:49pmA popular question that is asked is "Is it cheaper to live there then home?" Well that is kind of tricky question. It really comes down to how you want to live. The average income for a Tico I believe is around $8000-9000 USD. so not a lot. It is no longer considered a third world country and we have found the infrastructure and services to be quite good. Everyone basically has hydro and access to clean drinking water. Education is highly stressed and the health care system, public and private is excellent. Even when paying your own bill dental care here is top notch and "cheap". Ex: dental implants: Canada about $3500.00 Costa Rica about $800.00 A lot of the doctor s and dentists are US educated and equipment is just as advanced as home.
Housing ranges all over too. You can buy property from $35,000 to in the millions. Location, location, location is a key factor. Waterfront property as always fetches a good dollar. Not sure what a car costs but gas and insurances are high. On the other hand public buses are very inexpensive but figuring out the routes is complicated. They go everywhere, the challenge is finding out what bus goes where and when. We have found that locals at the bus stops are very helpful even if language is a barrier, they sure try to help. It is doable and we are slowly figuring it out. Taxis also are plentiful and very cost effective and will take you just about anywhere.
When it comes to food it depends how you want to eat but I think all in all it is about 30 percent less here. We have been going to the market for our meat, fish, vegetables and fruit. Quality is excellent, prices can't be beat and variety plentiful. Ex: 2 fish fillets: c795-$1.60 1 pineapple, 1 watermelon, 1 cantelope: c1400-$2.80 When it comes to canned goods and packaged items, if you buy local brands they are comparable to home, if you want our brands then you pay more. Ex: Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup: c980-$1.95
We have found the dairy products to be some of the best we've tasted and less expensive than home. Alcoholic products are about 50 percent less with the exception of beer, it's just plain cheap whether in a restaurant or buying at the store.!!
I know there is more to the cost of living then the above but hope this gives you a small glimpse. As I learn more I'll add to this subject but the best way is to come and check it out for yourself!!!